CONSIDERATIONS FOR AIR TRAVEL
Many airlines have a medical officer or dedicated unit for those with special medical requirements. Contact the airline before you book to discuss your needs.
Important things to know include:
the airline’s policy on carrying and using oxygen, including portable oxygen concentrators, and medical devices such as CPAP machines or nebuliser.
if the flight is code-sharing. This is when a flight has one airline’s code and flight number but is operated by another one. You will need to check with each airline involved about their own oxygen policy
the exact length of the flight, and if delays are likely
how you need to confirm your fitness to fly
the facilities available at the outgoing and incoming airports
These might include assistance to get you from the airport lounge to the departure gate and on to the plane; the use of wheelchairs, and whether oxygen is available at the airport. You don’t need to be a wheelchair user to get assistance at airports
Make sure you talk with someone at the airline who knows how to help you plan for having oxygen on the plane
You will need a prescription for oxygen and a letter from your provider
On the day of travel:
Get to the airport at least 120 minutes before your flight
Have an extra copy of your provider's letter and prescription for oxygen
Carry lightweight luggage, if possible
Use a wheelchair and other services for getting around the airport
CONSIDERATIONS FOR RAIL TRAVEL
Contact the rail services informing them of your oxygen requirements. Enquire about facilities available at the start & end point stations.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR ROAD TRAVEL
Keep vehicle travel-ready with proper servicing
If you experience a severe coughing fit or any other similar condition, it is helpful to have another driver to take the wheel
If you are driving and experience a sudden onset of symptoms that could potentially endanger yourself or your passengers, do not hesitate to pull over & stop
Use portable concentrator & carry extra batteries
If you are carrying oxygen concentrators, secure them upright on the floor or the seat beside you
Bring enough tanks that will last 1 ½ times the length of your car ride. You never know when a traffic jam will have traffic backed up for an extended period
Take frequent breaks to stand & stretch your legs
CONSIDERATIONS FOR CRUISE TRAVEL
When you book your cruise, inform the cruise company that you’ll be traveling with oxygen. Most cruise lines require a four- to six-week notice to travel with oxygen
Ask your healthcare provider to give the cruise company a letter that includes a brief health history and your oxygen prescription
Work with your oxygen supplier to have oxygen units sent to the cruise ship before you depart. Ask the supplier to tell you how many tanks you’ll need at ports of call. The supplier may be able to arrange those for you
Search online for special cruises for people on oxygen
MOST IMPORTANT- HAVE FUN!!
SUMMARY
Plan your location in advance
Prepare an extensive list & pack all essentials accordingly
Keep all medications handy
Have a list of emergency contacts
Have medical certificates ready
Contact services beforehand to update them of your condition & arrange facilities accordingly.
Stock your oxygen tanks & batteries
Have fun!
Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore!
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